Title: Core Testing Requirements for Seismic Evaluation of Existing Structures

Author(s): Halil Sezen, Chuck Hookham, Kenneth J. Elwood, F. Michael Bartlett, Mark A. Moore

Publication: Concrete International

Volume: 33

Issue: 11

Appears on pages(s): 43-48

Keywords: concrete, strength, variability, sample size, outliers, nondestructive testing

DOI:

Date: 11/1/2011

Abstract:
Determining in-place concrete strengths is particularly important for the seismic evaluation of existing buildings. Underestimating the concrete strength in a seismic rehabilitation design by adopting a lower-bound estimate of the in-place concrete strength can undervalue component resistances, potentially triggering inappropriate rehabilitation solutions. The objective of this article is to review assessment requirements and guidelines and identify ways of setting core sampling requirements appropriate for seismic evaluation. Recommendations are based on a review of statistical methods to select sample size for an acceptable error level and assessment of outlier data.